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Do you have any advice for working with a boss I do not like? I really like the organization and my coworkers, but me and my boss just don't get along. What can I do to make it more bearable without leaving?

Through life we meet people we like, like better or dislike. You need to focus on the work, it's always about the work. Managers and workers come and go the work remains, If the manager is treating you differently then your co-workers that is a much bigger issue. Keep conversations work related, stay positive and wow with your work performance.

Let me assure you that you are definitely not alone on this. There are many like you who don't see eye-to-eye with their bosses. First, concentrate on your job. Be productive and meet your expectations. Nothing is more important than that. One mistake I made early in my career was letting my productivity slip because of my personal feelings about a boss.

Second, avoid thinking of your relationship in terms of who is "right" and who is "wrong." Instead, frame your relationship in terms of having differing views, personalities, or ways of doing your jobs. Don't make it personal, make it about business; and remember that your work is bigger than either of you.

Third, try to have a professional, honest conversation with your boss if you haven't done so. You may find out that your boss has feedback that will make you better at your job. You may find out that you two have things in common, even! I should note that if you every think you should file a complaint, please look at your employee handbook to find out your organization's protocols.

Last, be accountable for your actions. This is how you cover yourself regardless of personality differences. One thing that I found very helpful was taking an emotional intelligence quiz and reading up on the subject. That really helped me understand others and how to think carefully before judging others. The fact that you like your organization and co-workers is a great thing! That positive outlook should keep you motivated to succeed regardless of who your boss is.

Let me start by saying, you are not alone! And, this will likely not be the first boss you dislike or don't get along with. The most important thing is to focus on the positives. Try to stay engaged with your coworkers and foster relationships inside and outside of your team. At the same time, try your best to maintain a respectful relationship with your manager because your managers feedback is likely going to be most important if you look for another position within your company. You want to be cautious not to burn any bridges. If your manager is treating you differently, this is a larger issue and should be addressed with your HR department. I would also encourage you to keep in mind that you can learn a lot from a bad boss. If you want to be a manager in the future, I would take this as a learning experience to make yourself a better manager down the road.

I echo my fellow contributors when I say you are not alone. Regardless of what you do, if it involves working in any capacity with other people you are going to inevitably work with someone that you would rather not given the choice. If you have not yet, have a professional conversation with your manager to discuss your perceptions of of him/her and those that s/he has of you. This may clear the air and allow for a more cooperative relationship. If that is not an option, then focus on the work. You do not have to be friends you have to be professionals. If it is possible look at another positon within your company where you would have a different boss and try to move roles. Ultimately you will have to decide if you can maintain your professionalizm and capability working with somone you are in no way fond of, or if you ultimately need to make a major change.

Hi,
That is always a tough situation, but you have several ways of dealing with it. First off, my standard advice if you like the organization you need to look for the positive. If you plan to be a manager one day, this can be to your benefit.
First off, look for the "why". Why did you boss do what he or she did. When you look from their vantage point, things look differently and it may help you to understand that it is not to be mean or a bad boss. Also, be upfront and ask them why they did what they did. Not in a confrontational way, but rather as a learning opportunity.
If it is simply a personality clash, for the things your Boss does that upset you, make a note and do not do the same thing to your subordinates when you are in that role. Remember most times the boss will move on or up before you do.
The last option would be of course if it is too stressful, than look for another job. Please keep in mind, there is no perfect organization and you may find yourself in a worse situation regretting the move.
Best of Luck